by PressSweden Lantmannen launches plant-based protein production
Sweden corporation invests in plant-based protein production
The global trend is to reduce meat consumption. People are turning to veganism and vegetarianism as a more ethical way of life in relation to animals and the environment. In this context, the production of plant-based proteins is becoming increasingly important.
Swedish company Lantmännen has decided to invest in plant-based protein production. It has earmarked SEK 1.2 million for plant construction to produce such products. The technology involves using peas and horse beans for protein production. The new plant will, therefore, require raw materials, which means an increase in crop yields. As a result, Lantmännen plans to expand pea production in Sweden by 50% from current levels.
Construction of the new plant has begun in the town of Lidköping. It will be operational in 2027. According to the company’s project, the plant will produce 7,000 tonnes of vegetable protein isolates per year. The raw material will be used in several products:
— sports drinks;
— alternatives to traditional dairy and meat products;
— gluten-free pasta products;
— gluten-free bakery products.
The company’s benefits go beyond dietary diversity. It will create dozens of new jobs, which will positively impact the country’s economy.
Product relevance
Magnus Kagevik, President of Lantmännen, praised the investment’s potential. He believes that increasing the diversity of food products is relevant to the world as a whole. The population is growing, and the traditional livestock industry may not be able to meet the increased demand. Livestock farming also has a negative impact on the environment. The ethics of animal husbandry, in general, are also worth mentioning. These and other factors are contributing to a shift towards plant-based protein consumption. Kagewick says this trend will only increase in the future. There is already a need to increase the production of alternatives to animal products, which requires investment.
The new company will enable Lantmännen to improve the chain of production and use of vegetable isolates. The company plans to take over all stages — from growing the legumes to delivering the product to the end consumer.
This project and its operation include:
— a plant area of 5,300 square metres;
— the planned capacity for horse beans of 5,000 tonnes per year;
— capacity for peas of 35,000 tonnes per year.
Given these volumes, the company intends to expand its pea production. It is expected to grow to 120,000 tonnes. Swedish farmers currently grow 80,000 tonnes of the crop.
It is worth noting that these types of pulses are ideally suited to the country’s climate. They do not require large amounts of water or nutrients. At the same time, they help to retain nitrogen in the soil, which increases its fertility.